Vintage Tamiya Tiger I

[Raminator]

I've just come into possession of an old Tamiya Tiger I. I won't say I own it or that it's mine; it belonged to my friend's father who sadly passed away recently. My friend asked if I wanted it since he doesn't have anywhere to keep it, but since I feel like it'd be disrespectful to just put my grubby hands on it I told him I'd look after it until he moved into a bigger place with enough room for the beast.

To my inexpert eye, it looks like it belongs to the LSSAH during Operation Citadel. Either way, it's a beautiful machine that's been well constructed and looked after.

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However, it doesn't work. It's obviously missing some bits, and I need some help identifying exactly what model it is and what it needs to get back up and running. It obviously predates the DMD/MFU electronics, so I'm not sure what I'm dealing with.

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Does anyone recognise the kit? Is this an earlier version of (what is now) the full-option Tiger, or is it a static kit that's been R/C'd? Is it worth trying to get the old electronics working, or would it make more sense to replace it with a new DMD/MFU?

[Ad Lav]

It's not tamiya, they've always had torsion bar suspension and an aluminium chassis iirc.

Someone may know what it is but I'm pretty sure it not tamiya.

[wibblywobbly]

Is it the static kit, converted to RC? I'm looking at the way that the top hull fits at the back, and the way that the turret locates through the cut outs, those are unique to Tamiya. The electronics look to be a custom install. If it's that old then HL etc weren't making them back then. The airfilters look like the early ones, which as far as I know are available from Tamiya as an aftermarket item, and it has smoke launchers etc (the rear ones should be right on the corners). Whatever it is, a lot of work has gone into it, and it is very nicely done.

[Ad Lav]

I have a static tiger at home and the suspension is the same as the full option ones.

Is it definately 1:16?

If it's tamiya it will be printed/stamped on it with a part number.

[fury]

A very nice tank all the same and there has been a great deal of skill and work gone into the build.

[jagdtigerman]

It's a 1/15 Bandai

[Raminator]

Awesome, thanks! Just checked the measurements on the tank and it's slightly too big to be 1:16. You nailed it, it must be this one; decals match and everything.

[Simon M]

Defo a Bandai, I got one under the bed to do at some point

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